The Inland Northwest Professional Chapter has undergone a few changes this winter: Pia Hansen, after a tenure of more than 10 years, has stepped down as president.
Her strong leadership and many accomplishments during all the years she's dedicated to the chapter are numerous and varied - she will be missed and will continue to assist the chapter.
KXLY's Mark Peterson - long-time treasurer for the chapter - has stepped in to fill Pia's shoes and keep the transition smooth.
After a long board meeting, comparing notes and looking at dates and deadlines, the board decided to call off the local SPJ contest for this year only.
It takes an enormous amount of work and effort to put on this contest, and this year we feel that we can't live up to the past levels of professionalism and the high standard of judging.
It's time for us to re-group and pick up the contest again, next year.
The Region 10 contest is still on - go to The Region 10 Web site to get applications.
The Board apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and urge you to consider this an excellent time to volunteer for your local press organization. We welcome members from all media outlets - college, freelance and full-timers all the same.
As our business changes, it becomes increasingly important that we can bring programs, classes and speakers to the region, in the interest of better journalism and communication.
We really need your help to continue the work we do.
Our next board meeting is:
March 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Globe on Division
Best regards and thank you for your continued support,
Mark Peterson
President Inland North West Pro Chapter
Morning Anchor KXLY TV
See results of the 2006 Excellence in Journalism Awards here.